East Ridge Fire Captain Honored for Decades of Service

Captain Thomas Finch receives First Responder Hero Award for his 22 years with the department

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a firefighter's helmet and uniform, composed entirely of soft, warm pools of color and light, conceptually representing the selfless service of first responders.A first responder's uniform and equipment, captured in a dreamlike, abstracted scene that evokes the compassion and dedication of those who serve their communities.East Ridge Today

Captain Thomas Finch of the East Ridge Fire Rescue in Tennessee has been recognized with the First Responder Hero Award for his over two decades of dedicated service to the community. Finch, who was encouraged by friends to join the fire department early in his career, has built a reputation for his compassion, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need.

Why it matters

The First Responder Hero Award highlights the critical role that firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and police officers play in keeping communities safe, often putting themselves in harm's way. Finch's story exemplifies the selflessness and community-mindedness that defines first responders, inspiring others to follow a similar path of public service.

The details

Finch began his fire service journey as a volunteer, encouraged by friends who saw his potential. After completing rookie training, he officially joined the East Ridge Fire Rescue 22 years ago. Finch credits the mentorship and camaraderie within the department as key to his success, describing the firefighters as a supportive 'family' that helps each other through the challenges of the job. While Finch has seen his fair share of difficult situations, he finds the work deeply rewarding, especially when he sees people recover and improve after receiving assistance.

  • Finch has served with the East Ridge Fire Rescue for 22 years.
  • Finch was recently honored with the First Responder Hero Award.

The players

Captain Thomas Finch

A 22-year veteran of the East Ridge Fire Rescue who was recently recognized with the First Responder Hero Award for his dedication to public service and the East Ridge community.

East Ridge Fire Rescue

The fire department where Finch has spent his entire career, known for its strong sense of camaraderie and commitment to mentoring new firefighters.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Well, thank you very much. I appreciate the nomination, and I'm very humbled to receive something like this. After 22 years, it means a lot.”

— Captain Thomas Finch

“During the training, the guys here helped to train and mentor you. A lot of the older guys really felt like fathers to me because they were such impactful mentors as I learned. A lot of people come into this not really knowing if they are going to like it, but when they say it is like a big family, it really makes a difference.”

— Captain Thomas Finch

“We end up seeing a lot of bad things, but at the same time, we see people at their worst and we are there to help them out. It really means a lot when somebody comes back and they are doing better. You were there at their lowest point to help them.”

— Captain Thomas Finch

What’s next

The East Ridge Fire Rescue will hold a special ceremony to formally present Captain Finch with the First Responder Hero Award in recognition of his outstanding service to the community.

The takeaway

Captain Finch's story highlights the critical role that first responders play in supporting their communities, often through difficult and emotional situations. His dedication to mentorship and camaraderie within the fire department serves as an inspiration for others considering a career in public service.